150 people delivered from benefits into entrepreneurship in the past six months in the North East

InBiz, a national organisation specialising in the promotion and development of self employment and entrepreneurship that originated in Stockton, has helped 150 people in the North East to realise their dream of entrepreneurship since July 2008, with 25 of those from Stockton.

One such person is Paul James, 31, from Stockton. Paul had anger management issues that had affected both his personal and working life. Paul wanted to change his lifestyle, and felt that the responsibility of running his own business would help.

Paul had the skills to start his own property maintenance business, but felt that the business side of things was beyond his capabilities. Paul turned to InBiz, in Yarm Road, for help and was assigned his own business adviser, Leigh Trimble. Leigh helped Paul learn about bookkeeping, tax and National Insurance.

Paul had difficulties when he began test trading, including delayed payment for completed jobs and incurring unexpected costs when his van-essential for running his business- broke down. It was during this difficult time that Paul realised how much he had changed. There were times when the ‘old’ Paul would have lashed out, but the ‘new’ Paul kept calm, and worked out how he would overcome these hurdles.

Paul’s business, PBM Property Services, has now taken off and he is working hard to ensure the success of his business. Paul said, “I had my doubts about whether I would be able to run my own business, but InBiz took me through everything that I needed to know. I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to understand bookkeeping once it was all explained to me. Running a business gives me a sense of responsibility, and keeps me focused on not losing my temper and remaining calm and professional. It has definitely improved my life.”

Karen Kenmare, InBiz Area Manager in the North East, said, “Paul's story is a perfect example of the work that InBiz does in Stockton. Paul had the practical skills he needed, and InBiz helped him to gain the business knowledge necessary to go into self employment. I am so proud of Paul, and the way that he has overcome difficulties and remained determined to change his life.”

InBiz Preess Release